HEALTH INFORMATION

Low Back Pain: Easing Back Into Your Daily Activities

Topic Overview

Bed rest of more than a couple of days can actually make
your low back pain worse and lead to other problems such as stiff joints and
muscle weakness. If you do use bed rest for a short
time, remember the following guidelines.

Sitting up in bed puts additional pressure on the
intervertebral discs. Lying on your side puts a little more pressure on the
discs than lying on your back.

Trying to eat a meal in bed can be
awkward and can put more strain on your back than if you get up and eat at
a table.

Avoid activities that make your pain worse. Modify activities
that you cannot avoid doing. Here are some tips:

Place one foot on a stool when standing for an
activity such as brushing your teeth.

When putting on pants or
stockings, stand with your back against a wall. Then slide your shoulders down
the wall as you bend your knees. Gently step into your pants or stockings, one
leg at a time.

Return to your normal activity gradually but as soon as
possible. Start with walking 10 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.

Topic Contents

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